Despite a mounting injury toll, the Dolphins are refusing to be derailed in their pursuit for finals footy, with veteran forward Mark Nicholls backing the club’s resilience, depth and next-man-up mentality.
Felise Faufusi and Jack Bostock are the latest to join the injury list, adding to a string of sidelined forwards this season. But Nicholls remains upbeat, viewing the situation as an opportunity rather than a setback.
“You just have to keep moving on,” Nicholls told the media this morning.
“That's why we trained as a squad of 36 in the preseason. When someone goes down, we know the next guy can step up and do a job.”
The Dolphins have had to live by that in 2025. With a number of young players gaining valuable game time, Nicholls praised their contributions and preparedness, pointing to Aublix Tawha’s recent debut performance as a testament to the team’s readiness.
“We have had a lot of injuries, particularly in the middle.
“But there is no point focusing on who’s missing. It’s about who’s here and the confidence we have in them.”
Match: Dolphins v Rabbitohs
Round 17 -
home Team
Dolphins
9th Position
away Team
Rabbitohs
16th Position
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
The Dolphins are also set to receive a timely boost, with Josh Kerr named to return this weekend. Nicholls highlighted the impact Kerr has had off the bench this season, noting his powerful running and creativity through offloads.
“Josh brings a real punch to our middle. He’s tough to handle and he creates second-phase opportunities that can shift momentum.”
As the Dolphins prepare for a crucial clash against the Rabbitohs, Nicholls acknowledged the personal significance of the match of facing his former club and long-time mentor Wayne Bennett.
“Without Wayne I don’t think I’d be where I am today.
“But this week, we want to send him home frowning. We know how much this game means, especially heading into the bye. It’s a four-point game.”
Young halfback Isaiya Katoa was again named as Dolphins captain and Nicholls said the 20-year-old’s growth has been inspiring.
“He’s been a natural leader from the start.
“Now, with 50 games under his belt, you can really see him taking ownership.
“The captaincy is a deserved recognition and he’s only going to get better.”
While the path ahead won’t be easy, Nicholls is clear: the Dolphins are ready to embrace the challenge.
“If we want to be there at the end, we’ve got to earn it. Every week counts. We’ve faced obstacles before and we’ve shown we can overcome them.”
